While the best option is to stay indoors during a blizzard but circumstances may be such that driving out could be unavoidable. Even in the worst case scenario, avoid driving out at night. If possible, wait till day break to venture out.

Be prepared for the fact that you may have to drive through rough winds at 35 mph carrying large quantities of snow. Then again the blizzard may continue for several hours. So in your interest and safety, take some precautions before and during your drive through the inclement weather.

Before venturing out:

Check your car tires thoroughly to ensure they have adequate tread. Also make sure that your vehicle is an all wheel drive. Check the brakes, wiper blades, battery and exhaust system carefully. They must be in good working condition. Replace the wiper blades if they are worn out. Fill washer reservoir with anti-freeze solution. Keep a windshield scrapper. Check with the state highway patrol about the driving conditions on the road. Keep your winter car kit in order. This means that you should have flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, medicines, warm clothes, shovel and bright red colored cloth to be used as a flag in case of emergency.

When you are out:

Try not to drive alone. If possible, take someone with you. Remember to carry your cell phone and make sure it is fully charged and is working properly.

Inform your family and friends about your schedule and remain in touch with them as you drive along so that they have a fair idea of where you are at a point of time.

Use road maps to assess the direction and distance you are traveling before you drive out of the house. Stay on the main roads. Be extra careful if the snowfall is heavy because you may find it difficult to read the road signs. Keep your headlights on all through the drive. Remember that your visibility and distance may be affected due to distortion during the snowfall. Keep the wipers running all through the drive and manually remove the snow from the windshield if necessary. Slow down on the bridges and overpasses as the cold wind creates snow more quickly on the bridge than on the roads. Keep sufficient distance from the car driving ahead of you. Avoid spinning your wheels if your car is bogged down in snow. Remove the snow from the tires with your hands and spread some sand under the wheels to apply traction.